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New World Syndrome facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

New World Syndrome is a name for a group of health problems. These problems often happen when people eat a lot of junk food and don't move around much (a sedentary lifestyle). It's especially common among Native peoples in North and South America, people in Oceania (like islands in the Pacific Ocean), and people living near the North Pole. This syndrome can lead to obesity (being very overweight), heart disease, diabetes (problems with blood sugar), hypertension (high blood pressure), and a shorter life span.

What Causes It?

This syndrome is connected to big changes in how people live. In the past, many indigenous peoples ate a traditional diet and were very active. Their jobs, like fishing, farming, and hunting, involved lots of movement.

Today, many people have changed to a Western diet. This diet often includes foods high in fat, salt, sugar, and refined starches (like white bread). Also, many modern jobs, like office work, don't involve much physical activity. New ways to travel, like cars, also mean people walk less. These changes mean people eat more carbohydrates and move less, which can lead to health problems.

How Doctors Understand It

Doctors don't need special tests to diagnose New World Syndrome. They often see that people who are very overweight (have obesity) also start to have other health issues. These can include problems with fats in their blood (hyperlipidemia), high blood pressure (hypertension), and heart problems.

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New World Syndrome Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.